Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people 65 and older, as well as some younger people with certain disabilities or conditions. If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes, you’ve been paying into it your whole career — at 65 it becomes your coverage.
Who qualifies
You’re generally eligible at 65 if you’re a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Some people qualify earlier through Social Security Disability or specific conditions. Learn more in Medicare Eligibility.
What Medicare covers
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers a large share of hospital and medical care, but not everything — it has deductibles and coinsurance, and it doesn’t cover most routine dental, vision, hearing, or prescription drugs on its own. That’s why most people add either a Medicare Supplement plus a Part D drug plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles the extras.
How it’s different from Medicaid
Medicare is age- or disability-based federal coverage; Medicaid is income-based and run with the states (in Utah, through Utah Medicaid). Some people qualify for both. See Medicare vs Medicaid.
Why local guidance helps
The mechanics are national, but the plans available — and which doctors and pharmacies are in-network — are local to Grand County. Brian Penner compares your real options here, free. Book a free review or call (435) 260-3200.
Moab Medicare is a licensed independent insurance agency, not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.